SpaceTime: Your Guide to Space & Astronomy

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 140*Revisiting the Milky Way's Black Hole ImageA new study questions the accuracy of the first-ever image of Sagittarius A, the supermassive black hole at the centre of the Milky Way. Researchers suggest the image may not accurately represent its appearance, proposing a more elongated accretion disc instead of the ring-like structure previously released by the Event Horizon Telescope.*Methane in Titan's CrustData from NASA's Cassini spacecraft indicates that Saturn's moon Titan may have a methane-rich crust up to 10 kilometres thick. This insulating layer could explain Titan's shallow impact craters and its methane-rich atmosphere, providing insights into its unique geological and atmospheric dynamics.*Updates on Earth's Ozone HoleNASA reports that the annual ozone hole over Antarctica was smaller this year, ranking as the seventh smallest since recovery efforts began. The ozone layer is on track to fully recover by 2066, thanks to international agreements curbing ozone-depleting chemicals.The Science ReportAntarctic ice core samples suggest Earth has already surpassed a 1.5°C global temperature rise due to human-induced climate change. A study links outdoor lighting at night to increased Alzheimer's risk for those under 65. LED lights on surfboards could reduce shark attacks by mimicking natural camouflage. Nord's latest survey reveals continued use of weak passwords, with "123456" and "password" among the most common.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merch. Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast for as little as $3 per month and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support00:00 New study suggests first ever picture of Milky Way's black hole might not be accurate00:47 New study claims first ever images of Sagittarius A may be inaccurate03:57 New study suggests Saturn's moon Titan may have an insulating methane crust09:12 Scientists say Antarctic ozone layer could fully recover by 206620:04 New study suggests Earth has already passed 1.5 degrees Celsius warming attributable to climate change21:24 A new study claims exposure to outdoor lighting at night increases Alzheimer's risk25:29 Space Time with Stuart Gary is available on numerous podcast platforms

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 139*Gilmore Space Cleared for Orbital LaunchThe Australian Space Agency has granted Gilmore Space the final approval needed to conduct its maiden orbital test flight of the Ares rocket from the Bowen Spaceport in North Queensland. This launch will mark the first orbital test flight of an Australian-made rocket from Australian soil, showcasing a new hybrid propulsion system developed by the company.*Discovery of Red Monster Galaxies in the Early UniverseAstronomers have identified three ultra-massive galaxies, each nearly the size of the Milky Way, that reached their colossal size within the first billion years of the universe's existence. These findings, reported in Nature, challenge existing models of galaxy formation and suggest a more efficient star formation process in the early universe.*Signs of an Ancient Martian OceanChina's Mars rover, Zhurong, may have found evidence supporting the theory that Mars' northern hemisphere was once covered by a vast ocean. The terrain around Zhurong's landing site includes features that could indicate past water or ice activity, suggesting a Martian ocean existed billions of years ago.The Science RobertArchaeologists in Israel have uncovered 12,000-year-old pebbles that may be precursors to the wheel, potentially pivotal in the evolution of rotating technologies. Meanwhile, the COP 29 climate summit highlights the ongoing rise in fossil emissions, with China remaining the largest polluter. Additionally, a study finds that frequent snoring in tweens is linked to behavioural issues, and a lack of conceptual clarity may explain beliefs in the paranormal.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merch. Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast for as little as $3 per month and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support00:00 This is space Time Series 27 Episode 139 for broadcast on 18 November 202400:46 Australian Space Agency gives final approval for Gilmore Space to launch Ares rocket02:31 ERIS is a three stage orbital launch vehicle powered by hybrid rocket engines08:49 Gilmore is developing a rocket called ERIS which will go into orbit12:42 Gilmore Space Technologies have plans to launch an ERIS satellite from Bowen15:39 Three ultra massive galaxies discovered by NASA's Webb Space Telescope23:39 Ancient pebbles from Israel may have paved way for wheel invention24:42 New study finds teens who frequently snore more likely to have behavioural problems✍️ Episode ReferencesEvent Horizon Telescope Collaboration[Event Horizon Telescope](https://eventhorizontelescope.org/)National Astronomical Observatory of Japan[NAOJ](https://www.nao.ac.jp/en/)Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society[MNRAS](https://academic.oup.com/mnras)NASA Cassini Mission[Cassini Mission](https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/cassini/main/index.html)Planetary Science Journal[PSJ](https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/3338)6--- University of Hawaii[University of Hawaii](https://www.hawaii.edu/)NASA Goddard Space Flight Centre[NASA Goddard](https://www.nasa.gov/goddard)Montreal Protocol[Montreal Protocol](https://ozone.unep.org/treaties/montreal-protocol)Nature Geoscience[Nature Geoscience](https://www.nature.com/ngeo/)Macquarie University[Macquarie University](https://www.mq.edu.au/)

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 138*Discovery of the Outer Solar System's Magnetic FieldScientists have discovered evidence of an ancient magnetic field at the far reaches of our solar system. Research published in AGU Advances, based on 4.6 billion-year-old grain samples from the asteroid Richie, suggests the presence of a weak magnetic field during the formation of the outer solar system. This field, although weak, could have been instrumental in the formation of the outer planets, including Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. The findings provide new insights into the magnetic influences shaping our solar system.*Southern Launch Gets Green Light for Orbital MissionsSouthern Launch has received federal and state government approval for its Whalers Way orbital launch complex in South Australia. The site is poised to support up to 42 orbital rocket launches annually, with plans for multiple launch pads and comprehensive tracking facilities. This development marks a significant step forward for Australia's growing Space industry.*Axiom Unveils New Lunar Spacesuits for NASAAxiom Space has revealed the new spacesuits for NASA's Artemis 3 mission, set for a lunar landing in 2026. Designed to withstand the harsh lunar environment, these suits feature improved mobility and dust resistance. The new design includes interchangeable segments to accommodate various body types, reflecting advancements in spacesuit technology since the Apollo era.The Science RobertA study has identified a decline in low-pressure weather systems, crucial for rainfall in southern Australia, since the mid-20th century. Meanwhile, the largest study of brain volume to date has found genetic links between ADHD and Parkinson's disease. In wildlife news, taming wild elephant calves has been shown to increase stress levels, potentially affecting their health. Finally, the paranormal world is abuzz with sightings of Robin Hood's ghost in Sherwood Forest, though sceptics remain unconvinced.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merch. Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support00:00 Scientists uncover an ancient magnetic field at the outer edge of the solar system08:09 Axiom Space has unveiled the new lunar spacesuits NASA plans to use13:50 Low pressure weather systems driving southern Australia's rainfall have declined over decades16:19 Reports in England that Robin Hood has been seen haunting Sherwood Forest

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 137*The Earth: A Giant Slushie?New research reveals that Earth once experienced a "slushy" period following its snowball Earth phase. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study by Virginia Tech scientists suggests that as the planet thawed, it transitioned into a slushy state, marked by high carbon dioxide levels and rapid melting. The findings offer fresh insights into Earth's climate evolution and the resilience of life under extreme conditions.*Phobos Eclipses the SunNASA's Mars Perseverance rover has captured a rare celestial event: the Martian moon Phobos eclipsing the Sun. Using its Mastcam-Z camera, Perseverance observed the tiny moon transiting the Sun from its position in Jezero Crater. This remarkable event highlights the ongoing challenges and discoveries as the rover ascends the crater's rim.*SpaceX Dragon Boosts ISSFor the first time, NASA has utilized the SpaceX Dragon capsule to boost the International Space Station into a higher orbit. This maneuver, using Dragon's Draco thrusters, is part of a broader strategy to maintain the station's altitude and test future deorbit capabilities. The mission also delivered over 2,700 kg of supplies and scientific equipment, including a wooden cubesat and human tissue samples for aging research.The Science ReportA new study attributes last year's global temperature spike primarily to El Nino, rather than climate change. Meanwhile, scientists discover a 161-million-year-old giant tadpole fossil, shedding light on the evolution of frogs and toads. Additionally, research indicates that popular music in the US has become simpler since the 1950s. Plus, global cell phone sales show regional variations post-COVID, with notable growth in the US, Europe, and Australia.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merch. Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support00:00 This is space Time Series 27, episode 137 for broadcast on 13 November 202400:47 New research suggests that as the planet thawed, it went slushy04:46 NASA's Mars Perseverance rover captures rare Phobos eclipse of the Sun07:15 NASA uses SpaceX Dragon cargo ship to boost International Space Station to higher altitude14:38 Study says El Nino Southern Oscillation caused global temperatures spike last year16:55 Scientists in South America have discovered the fossilized remains of a 161 million year old tadpole18:33 New figures show that global cell phone sales dropped following the COVID pandemic

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 136*Discovering the Origins of MagnetarsA groundbreaking study reveals that magnetars, highly magnetic neutron stars, are born from stellar mergers rather than single star supernova events. These findings, published in Nature, delve into the origins of fast radio bursts (FRBs), which are high-energy flashes releasing more energy in nanoseconds than half a billion suns. The research indicates that FRBs are more common in massive star-forming galaxies, suggesting a link to magnetars formed from stellar mergers. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about magnetar formation and sheds light on the dynamic processes in the universe.*Voyager 1 Approaches One Light Day from EarthNASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft is set to become the first human-made object to travel more than a light day's distance from Earth, a monumental 26 billion kilometers away. This historic milestone is expected in January 2027. Despite recent communication challenges due to a fault protection system glitch, engineers successfully reestablished contact. Voyager 1 and its twin, Voyager 2, continue their journey through interstellar space, providing invaluable data about the cosmos.*Australia Axes Vital Military Satellite Defense SystemIn a surprising move, the Australian government has canceled a crucial $7 billion satellite defense project. The JP9102 military satellite communications system, awarded to Lockheed Martin, was intended to enhance Australia's military communications amid growing regional tensions. The decision, amid geopolitical challenges, raises concerns about Australia's defense capabilities and secure communications network.The Science RobertA study highlights the significant carbon footprint of private jet users, who generate 500 times more CO2 than the average person. Meanwhile, research identifies 22 pesticides linked to prostate cancer, and a systematic review confirms no link between cell phone use and brain cancer. Plus, a fascinating look at how animals in the wild might consume alcohol from fermented fruits.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merch. Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support00:00 This is space Time Series 27, Episode 136 for broadcast on Remembrance Day00:46 New study suggests highly magnetic neutron stars are born out of stellar mergers05:06 NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft lost contact with mission managers on October 1815:10 Australian government has just axed a crucial $7 billion satellite defense project17:38 A new study has identified 22 pesticides consistently linked to the incidence of prostate cancer20:53 A new systematic review confirms there is no scientific evidence that cell phones cause cancer✍️ Episode ReferencesNASA[https://www.nasa.gov/](https://www.nasa.gov/)Caltech[https://www.caltech.edu/](https://www.caltech.edu/)Deep Synoptic Array[https://www.astro.caltech.edu/research/dsa/](https://www.astro.caltech.edu/research/dsa/)Owens Valley Radio Observatory[https://www.astro.caltech.edu/ovro/](https://www.astro.caltech.edu/ovro/)Nature Journal[https://www.nature.com/](https://www.nature.com/)Lockheed Martin[https://www.lockheedmartin.com/](https://www.lockheedmartin.com/)Australian Defence Force[https://www.defence.gov.au/](https://www.defence.gov.au/)UNRWA[https://www.unrwa.org/](https://www.unrwa.org/)Jet Propulsion Laboratory[https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/](https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/)

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 135*Could Uranus Moon Miranda Have a Subsurface Ocean?A new study suggests that Uranus' moon Miranda may harbour a liquid water ocean beneath its peculiar jigsaw-like surface. The findings, published in the Planetary Science Journal, challenge existing assumptions about Miranda's history and composition, potentially placing it among the select few worlds in our solar system with environments that could support life. The study highlights the intriguing possibility of a vast ocean beneath Miranda's icy crust, kept warm by gravitational tidal forces.*NASA Discovers Weird Red Rocks with Green Spots on MarsNASA's Mars Perseverance Rover has stumbled upon strange red rocks with green spots on the Martian surface. As the rover continues its journey towards the rim of Jezero Crater, it has uncovered a new geological puzzle featuring red and green rocks. Scientists are intrigued by the green spots, which could suggest past water activity, but their exact composition remains a mystery due to the rover's current limitations.*First Humans on Mars by 2035?NASA is planning to send humans to Mars as early as 2035. The mission would be part of the Artemis programme, with a journey that could take up to 14 months, including a 500-day stay on the Martian surface. This ambitious plan hinges on the successful deployment of the Lunar Gateway Space Station and other key technologies.The Science ReportNew research finds that children exposed to cannabis in the womb are more likely to exhibit behavioural issues. Meanwhile, ancient DNA studies reveal two genetically distinct populations north and south of the Caucasus Mountains, and a study links Airbnbs to increased crime rates. Plus, a fact-based conversation with AI might help some conspiracy theorists reconsider their beliefs.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merch. Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 134*Perseverance's Uphill Struggle in Jezero CraterNASA's Mars Perseverance Rover faces challenges as it attempts to climb the steep and slippery ridgeline of Jezero Crater. Despite its previous experience with steep inclines, this mission marks the first time the rover has tackled such a challenging combination of slope and surface. Engineers are exploring new strategies, including driving backwards and zigzagging, to improve traction. The goal is to reach the crater's rim for valuable scientific exploration, with plans to study potential microbial life signs preserved in ancient rock layers.*ESA's Ramses Mission to ApophisThe European Space Agency is preparing for its Ramses mission to study the asteroid Apophis as it makes a close flyby of Earth in 2029. This rare event offers a unique opportunity to understand Apophis's composition and reaction to gravitational forces, crucial for future planetary defence strategies. The mission is modelled on the HERA spacecraft, and aims to launch by 2028 to reach Apophis in time.*Shenzhou 19 Docks with China's Space StationChina's Shenzhou 19 spacecraft has successfully docked with the Tiangong Space Station. The crew will conduct experiments, including tests on manufacturing lunar bricks, as part of China's goal to land taikonauts on the Moon by 2030. The mission highlights China's expanding space ambitions and technological advancements.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merch. Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 133*Earth's Mantle: Two Distinct Domains RevealedGroundbreaking research has unveiled that the Earth's mantle is composed of two distinct and separate types of materials, forming independent African and Pacific domains. This discovery, published in Nature Geoscience, challenges previous assumptions of a chemically uniform mantle. The study highlights how these domains have been shaped by the formation and breakup of supercontinents over the past 700 million years, revealing the Earth has two chemically distinct hemispheres.*China's Ambitious Lunar PlansChina is accelerating its space ambitions, aiming to send its first taikonauts to the moon by 2030. The China Manned Space Agency plans to use its new Long March 10 rocket to transport taikonauts and a lunar lander to the moon's surface. This mission marks a significant step in China's lunar exploration, with plans to establish a joint base with Russia on the lunar surface by the early 2030s.*NASA's SpaceX Crew 8 Returns to EarthAfter a seven-month mission aboard the International Space Station, NASA's SpaceX Crew 8 has safely returned to Earth. During their mission, the crew conducted over 200 scientific investigations, including studies on space-based manufacturing, gene editing in Space environments, and plant growth in high radiation settings. These experiments aim to advance our understanding of long-duration Space missions and their potential applications.The Science ReportAustralia's climate continues to change with more extreme heat events and extended fire seasons. The latest State of the Climate Report highlights ongoing shifts in weather patterns, rising sea levels, and increasing temperatures. Meanwhile, a new study suggests vitamin K2 could help reduce night-time leg cramps, and the Australian Defence Force receives new Black Hawk helicopters amidst regional tensions.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch plus now with official NASA Merch! Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 132*Could Betelgeuse Actually Be Two Stars?A new study raises the intriguing possibility that the red supergiant Betelgeuse may not be on the brink of supernova, as previously thought. Instead, it might be a binary star system. This revelation, reported in the Astrophysical Journal, suggests that an unseen companion star could be causing Betelgeuse's pulsing brightness, challenging the long-held belief of its impending explosion.*Richard Branson to Co-Pilot Space Perspective's First Manned Balloon FlightVirgin Group founder Richard Branson is set to co-pilot Space Perspective's first manned stratospheric balloon flight. The flight promises a gentle ascent to 100,000 feet, offering panoramic views of Earth without the high G-forces of traditional Space tourism, marking a new era in high-altitude experiences.*Australia's Ambitious Spaceport PlansDespite not launching an orbital mission in over 50 years, Australia is gearing up to expand its spaceport capabilities. Proposals for new spaceports in Western Australia and Queensland are on the table, aiming to position Australia as a key player in the global Space industry.Skywatch: November Night SkiesExplore the November night skies with highlights including the Andromeda Galaxy, the Crab Nebula, and three meteor showers. Discover the celestial wonders visible this month and the fascinating stories behind them.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch plus now with official NASA Merch! Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 131*Ultra High Energy Gamma Rays Detected in the Milky Way's CoreScientists have detected ultra high energy gamma rays emanating from the centre of the Milky Way. This discovery, reported in the Astrophysical Journal Letters, offers a new perspective on the violent phenomena occurring in the galactic core. Using the High Altitude Water Cherenkov Observatory in Mexico, researchers measured these gamma rays at over 100 tera electron volts, providing insights into the cosmic processes involving Sagittarius A, the galaxy's central supermassive black hole.*Discovery of a Potential Triple Black Hole SystemAstronomers have identified what may be the first triple black hole system, located 8,000 light years away. This discovery could be the first direct evidence of gentle black hole formation, challenging the typical violent supernova origin theory. The system includes a central black hole, a closely orbiting star, and a far-off companion star, suggesting a more subtle formation process known as direct collapse.*NASA's New Deployable Solar Array System Faces ChallengesNASA has encountered issues with its new deployable solar array and antenna system on the Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator 4 spacecraft. The lightweight integrated solar array and antenna system, designed to enhance power and communication capabilities, is not deploying correctly due to a bent boom. This technology aims to support future deep Space missions with improved efficiency.The Science RobertA recent study reveals that standing, as opposed to sitting, does not improve cardiovascular health, despite the popularity of standing desks. Fossilised remains of a new giant elephant species have been found in India's Kashmir Valley, shedding light on elephant evolution. AI-assisted colonoscopies show a slight improvement in polyp detection. Meanwhile, Apple releases its first AI update, focusing on privacy and user data protection.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merch. Well worth a look....Become a supporter of this Podcast and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support